NCLEX-PN vs. NCLEX-RN

NCLEX-PN vs. NCLEX-RN

Both are Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) exams; the overall format is similar but not identical. With CAT exams, the system adjusts question count depending upon provided responses until competency of the covered topics can be determined. Much of the differentiation between the two exams is centered around the actual content of their questions. Both exams can consist of between 75 to 145 questions and are capped at five hours each. Both exams cover the following topics:

• Safe and Effective Care
• Health Promotion and Maintenance
• Psychosocial Integrity
• Physiological Integrity

Although LPNs and RNs provide patient care, RNs have a broader scope of practice, and the NCLEX-RN echoes that responsibility. Registered Nurses may oversee LPNs, so the NCLEX-RN is weighted more toward managing others, while the NCLEX-PN is heavily focused on coordinating care between clinicians.

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